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Fighting Customs Fraud: Higher Penalties and Private Lawsuits.

This Act significantly increases financial penalties and introduces import bans for companies involved in customs fraud or gross negligence. For the first time, it allows injured U.S. manufacturers and unions to sue customs cheats directly in federal court. These changes aim to protect American businesses and workers from unfair foreign competition, potentially leading to job stability and fairer market prices.
Key points
Penalties for customs fraud are tripled, and penalties for gross negligence can increase up to ten times the domestic value in certain cases.
Companies found guilty of customs fraud or gross negligence face a ban on importing merchandise into the U.S. (5 years for fraud, 2 years for gross negligence).
U.S. manufacturers, unions, and wholesalers can bring private civil actions against importers for customs fraud, seeking damages and import injunctions.
A presumption of knowledge of the violation is established for purchasers buying merchandise from affiliated persons previously found guilty of customs violations.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_805
Sponsor: Sen. Brown, Sherrod [D-OH]
Process start date: 2023-03-15
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Fighting Trade Cheats Act of 2023

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_805.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-03-15.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Penalties for customs fraud are tripled, and penalties for gross negligence can increase up to ten times the domestic value in certain cases.
  • Companies found guilty of customs fraud or gross negligence face a ban on importing merchandise into the U.S. (5 years for fraud, 2 years for gross negligence).
  • U.S. manufacturers, unions, and wholesalers can bring private civil actions against importers for customs fraud, seeking damages and import injunctions.
  • A presumption of knowledge of the violation is established for purchasers buying merchandise from affiliated persons previously found guilty of customs violations.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Brown, Sherrod [D-OH].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-27.

CATEGORIES

Economy Courts and Law